The Social Science program is designed to enrich and systematize the understanding we have of our own experiences in relation to broader societal forces. The social sciences begin from the premise that no matter how much we might wish to, we can never detach ourselves entirely from the social institutions and processes that are the context for our individual thoughts and actions. Thus, the purpose of the Social Science curriculum is to contribute to our empowerment by helping us understand the many ways in which people’s lives—values, goals, relationships, and beliefs—are affected by and have an impact on the social world. Most important, we can learn to contextualize our experiences in relation to those of others whose personal, social, and cultural circumstances differ from our own. An ability to think critically about our social environment can enhance our experience of whatever else we may choose to study or do.

In relation to the humanities the social sciences offer empirical and theoretical perspectives that complement those of history, philosophy, and religion. In relation to literature and the creative arts they provide a context for a fuller understanding of the works we study and create. In relation to the natural sciences they help us to analyze the economic, social, and political implications of modern technological advances and our complex interaction with the physical and biological environment. Finally, the social sciences disciplines give us access to the information and analytical tools we must have in order to evaluate and formulate alternative public policies and actively contribute to intellectual and public life.

For course listings, see Anthropology; Economics; Environmental Studies; Politics; Public Policy; Science, Technology, and Society; and Sociology.